Influencers push 'parasite cleanses' but doctors say to steer clear

"Wellness influencers suggest parasites can be blamed for a host of symptoms including bloating, insomnia, food cravings, teeth grinding, and headaches. They claim these discomforts can be relieved through parasite cleanses using herbal supplements or tinctures that induce bowel movements, which they assert rid the body of parasitic organisms."

"Dr. Abhay Satoskar, a pathologist and immunologist who studies parasites at Ohio State University, notes that inquiries about parasites increased significantly after supermodel Heidi Klum publicly discussed doing a cleanse. Kim Rogers, known as "The Worm Queen" on social media with a million followers, claims 95% of people have parasites and recommends cleanses three to four times yearly."

"Physicians warn there is little to no evidence these holistic treatments work, and some of these methods could cause serious health issues. Infectious disease specialists emphasize that the trend has led more prospective patients to reach out with concerns about parasites, despite the lack of scientific support for parasite cleanse products sold online."

Wellness influencers on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram promote parasite cleanses to address symptoms including bloating, insomnia, food cravings, teeth grinding, and headaches. Prominent influencers such as Kim Rogers, known as "The Worm Queen," claim that approximately 95% of people have parasites and recommend cleanses three to four times yearly, particularly for pet owners. These cleanses typically involve herbal supplements, tinctures that induce bowel movements, or soaking in water with Epsom salt and baking soda. Products are sold online, with some kits priced at $125. However, infectious disease physicians and pathologists emphasize there is little to no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of these holistic treatments, and some methods may cause serious health complications.

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